Blepharoplasty | The Cosmetic & Skin Surgery Center After What sort of pre-operative evaluation is necessary? Aside from the routine medical clearance from the patient’s primary care doctor and standard laboratory tests, evaluation of vision and eye health by the patient’s ophthalmologist is necessary. It is also necessary for patients to avoid certain medications, asprin, herbal remedies and alcohol for the 10 days prior to surgery. What sort of anesthesia is used? Blepharoplasty alone is typically done with local anesthetic with or without intra-venous sedation. General anesthesia may occasionally be used as dictated by patient preference. Patient safety and comfort is the primary consideration, so be sure to discuss this issue with Dr. To. Where are the incisions for Blepharoplasty placed? For the upper lid, the incisions are made within the individual lines and creases so that the scars will be more effectively concealed within the natural folds. For the lower lid, excess fat is typically removed through a transconjunctival approach, where the incision is made inside the lower eyelid, an incision that cannot be seen from the outside.

Excess skin may be excised directly, keeping the scar running in the pre-existing lines and creases. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures which are removed 3-5 days after surgery to optimize healing and minimize scar thickness. How long does Blepharoplasty last? Excess fat removed from the lids typically does not return, however the skin continues to age and stretch naturally. A secondary procedure is usually not necessary. What is the typical post-operative course for Blepharoplasty surgery? After surgery, patients are typically allowed to return home for recovery. Cool compresses are used to decrease swelling and discomfort. Sutures are removed 3-5 days after surgery and cosmetic tape applied at that time. Pain is usually minimal and patients usually return to work a few days after surgery. Some degree of bruising around the eyes and swelling of the tissues can be expected. What are the limitations of Blepharoplasty? Blepharoplasty cannot raise sagging eyebrows, nor can it remove dark circles, fine lines or wrinkles around the eyes. Additional complementary procedures may be necessary to achieve maximal results. Is Blepharoplasty covered by insurance?

Surgery that is done for purely cosmetic reasons are typically not covered by insurance, however if blepharoplasty is required for visual field restrictions, i.e. skin from the lids is interfering with vision, insurance may cover a portion of the cost. Before Blepharoplasty | My Cosmetic Surgery Miami VIDEOS Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty, also known as cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. What is it? Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and soft tissue that appears in the upper and / or lower with age. It is a cosmetic surgery that improves the appearance of the eyelids while fat deposits inside the top of the eyelids and lower. Who can practice the procedure? The best candidates for eyelid surgery are men and women who are physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in their expectations. This procedure is designed for patients who suffer from excess skin or fat on the eyelid that prevents them from seeing well, who have excess skin and fine wrinkles on the lower eyelid, or have bags and puffiness in the lower eyelid.

What results can I expect from the procedure? The results of eyelid surgery rejuvenates the person usually about five to seven years. For some, the positive effects of blepharoplasty procedure are permanent and allow them to enjoy a lifetime of eyes that look young. The effect of this operation is very favorable and lasting, contributing to the patient's face a rejuvenated and rested appearance. Most patients are satisfied with the results of eyelid surgery and youthful appearance that blepharoplasty can provide. After having the opportunity to see what eyelid surgery alone can do for your appearance, many individuals want to complement these changes with other procedures, including brow lift / brow lift and facelift. Consultation Process The consultation begins with a doctor-patient exchange on the concerns and health conditions has the latter. Any eye disease, including dry eye syndrome, should be discussed. a thorough physical examination of the eyelids are then performed: the upper eyelid are examined for redundancy skin, the position of the eyebrows, the lower eyelid, the eye position relative to the bony edge to help determine which approach is You should use. The outstanding amount of fat is taken into account, and the weakness of the eyelids.

Technical and protocol Blepharoplasty is performed through incisions in the skin of the eyelids to release and remove excess skin and tighten the orbicularis muscle. Then the fat is removed in the right amount to remove eyelid bags. And finally, the incisions are closed with very fine sutures. It usually heals without problems, and usually are virtually invisible to the three months since the eyelids are considered the body area with better healing. After blepharoplasty an ophthalmic ointment and a dressing very cold saline in order to reduce discomfort and swelling applies. But you need not cover the eyes preventing vision. The purpose of the upper blepharoplasty is to remove the excess skin that protrudes above the crease. The procedure is done through an incision made in the crease, so that is completely hidden. The skin is marked with care before surgery to ensure that the exact amount is removed. The skin is removed and then a small amount of fat is extracted in the medial area (next to the nose). The incision is closed with small points that are placed to ensure that the incision heals well and is virtually invisible. The stitches are removed on the fifth postoperative day.

Blepharoplasty scar will not be visible once completely healed. The goal of surgery of the lower eyelids or lower blepharoplasty is to improve the contour of the eyelid and improve the transition between the eyelid and cheek. This is done by removing the fat that bulges underneath the eye (bags), removal of excess skin and finally tightening of the eyelid muscle. This should be done in a way that maintains the shape of the natural eyelid and avoid any change in the position of the eyelid. Methods incision In the case of upper blepharoplasty, the incision is hidden in the eyelid crease. The procedure is done through an incision made in the crease, so that is completely hidden. The lower eyelid blepharoplasty can be done through two different approaches. The external approach is carried out through an incision just 2 mm below the tabs. The skin and muscle are elevated to reach pockets of fat. The second approach is the trans-conjunctival. This approach involves an incision in the eye to access fat. The fat is then removed and if necessary, a pinch of skin is removed just below the tabs.

Recovery and postoperative care The patient is discharged the same day after blepharoplasty. It is recommended to maintain a liquid diet during the first twelve hours. The patient should keep your head elevated with two pillows. Small stuffed bags of frozen peas should be placed in the eye during the first two days. Most patients who undergo surgery eyelids back to work on the seventh day after surgery. The patient can resume exercise three weeks after blepharoplasty. The final results of blepharoplasty will be fully apparent in about two or three months after surgery. Who does this? In our clinic this procedure My Cosmetic Surgery is performed by specialist Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso M.D. -cirujano certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with over ten years experience in providing cosmetic and aesthetic-medical services and Dr. Fabián Fontaine M.D. -cirujano plastic and reconstructive highly trained, specialized in cosmetic surgery and burns. Contact Us Eye Lift: Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Information Eyelid Surgery Does Insurance Cover Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery (also called an eye lift or blepharoplasty), reduces bagginess from lower eyelids and removes excess skin from the upper eyelids. This surgery is usually done for cosmetic reasons. It's also an effective way to improve sight in older people whose sagging upper eyelids get in the way of their vision . An eye lift will not eliminate dark circles under the eyes , crow's feet, or other facial wrinkles . It is often done along with other procedures such as laser resurfacing , filler injections, or forehead lifts . The Eyelid Aging Process As skin ages, it gradually loses its elasticity. A lack of elasticity plus the constant pull from gravity causes excessive skin to collect on the upper and lower eyelids. Excess skin on the lower eyelid causes wrinkles and bulges. On the upper eyelids, an extra fold of skin can hang over the eyelashes and get in the way of seeing. The fat that cushions the eyeball from the skull can also cause bulges in the upper and lower eyelids. The thin membrane that holds the fat in place weakens with age, letting the fat come forward into the lids. Who Is a Good Candidate For Eyelid Surgery?

The best candidates for an eye lift are people who are in good health and who have realistic expectations. Most are 35 years or older, but if baggy eyelids or droopy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have the surgery done sooner. Eyelid surgery can enhance your appearance and help build your confidence. However, it may not result in your ideal look or alter your facial structure. Before you decide to have surgery, think about your goals and discuss them with your surgeon. Will the Results of Eyelid Surgery Be Permanent? Upper eyelid surgery can last at least five to seven years. Lower eyelid surgery rarely needs to be repeated. Of course, your eyes will still age after the procedure. If your lids sag again, a forehead lift rather than another eye lift is often the proper procedure. How Should I Prepare for Eyelid Surgery? You will need to arrange for another person to drive you home after your surgery. You should also have someone stay with you the night of the procedure. Continued Expect and plan to stay home from work and limit your activities for several days after surgery while your eyelids heal. Some people have dry eyes after surgery, but that rarely lasts more than two weeks.

If you have dry eyes lasting more than two weeks, contact your doctor. At home, you should have the following items ready: Ice cubes Ice pack (or you can use freezer bags filled with ice, frozen corn, or peas) Small gauze pads Eye drops or artificial tears (ask your doctor to recommend the proper type to meet your particular needs) Clean washcloths and towels Over-the-counter painkillers (which your doctor can recommend) Advil , Motrin , Naproxen , Aleve , and aspirin should not be used due to the increased risk of bleeding. How Is Eyelid Surgery Performed? An eyelift usually takes about two hours if both upper and lower eyelids are done together. Your doctor will most likely use local anesthesia (a painkiller injected around the eye) with oral sedation. If you are having the procedure done at a hospital or surgical center, you will most likely receive IV sedation. If you're having all four eyelids done, the surgeon will probably work on the upper lids first. The surgeon will usually cut following the natural lines of your eyelids. Through these cuts, your surgeon will separate the skin from the underlying tissue and remove the excess fat, skin, and muscle.

Next, the surgeon will close those cuts with very small stitches . The stitches in the upper lids will stay for three to six days. The lower lids may or may not require stitches, depending on the technique used. Surgery on the lower eyelids may be done using one of several techniques. In one method, your surgeon makes a cut inside your lower eyelid to remove fat. That cut won't be visible. Your surgeon can then soften fine lines in the skin using a C02 or erbium laser . Another method involves making a cut along the eyelash margin. Through that cut, your surgeon can remove excess skin, loose muscle, and fat. The cut line fades after a short time. After either of these procedures, your surgeon may recommend laser resurfacing . Continued What Is Recovery Like After Eyelid Surgery? After eyelid surgery, you will have stitches in both lids that will remain for as long as a week. It is common to have swelling and, occasionally, bruising, but your eyelids should look normal within a week or two. What Are the Possible Complications From Eyelid Surgery? Complications and unwanted results from an eye lift are rare, but sometimes they do occur.

They can include: Bleeding Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty or Eye Lift) for a Youthful Look By Marilyn Haddrill ; contributions and review by Charles Slonim, MD Like This Page? Please Share! On this page: What happens during eyelid surgery? • Blepharoplasty recovery • Blepharoplasty complications • What does an eye lift cost? Droopy eyelids are a major reason why some people consider eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) to remove and tighten excess eyelid skin for a more alert, youthful appearance. Sometimes blepharoplasty also can improve your vision by providing a less obstructed field of view, once droopy eyelids are improved. Blepharoplasty can remove excess skin, muscle and sometimes fat from the upper or lower eyelids. In some cases, you might need only skin removed but not muscle  or you might need the procedure done on both upper and lower eyelids.

An upper eyelid blepharoplasty (sometimes called an "eye lift") should not be confused with upper eyelid ptosis surgery, which is a procedure to raise the position of the upper eyelid margin by tightening the muscle and tendon that normally elevate it. Blepharoplasty surgery sometimes can elevate an upper eyelid margin slightly if the heaviness of the excessive skin actually is "weighing down" the upper eyelid, causing it to droop. Recommended For You NEW: Zytaze supplements can enhance and prolong the effects of BOTOX What Is Cosmetic Blepharoplasty? Cosmetic eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure that is not medically necessary and is performed solely to improve your appearance. Blepharoplasty gets rid of drooping eyelids and bags under the eyes for a more energetic, youthful appearance. Unfortunately, your upper and sometimes lower eyelids may become droopy or baggy as part of the aging process. Your eyebrows also may sag or droop as a part of the same process. The eyelid skin stretches, muscles weaken and fat pockets become more prominent as they bulge. This may be a hereditary condition that runs in your family.

Cosmetically, such conditions may detract from the overall attractiveness of your eyes and face and cause a tired or older appearance. A number of different types of surgeons can perform cosmetic blepharoplasty. Ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons (a surgical sub-specialty of ophthalmology) most commonly perform these types of procedures. However, general plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and ear, nose and throat surgeons also perform cosmetic eyelid surgery. When Is Functional Blepharoplasty Needed? A functional blepharoplasty (in contrast to a cosmetic blepharoplasty) is eyelid surgery performed for medical reasons. Best Candidates upper and/or lower droopy eyelids, under-eye bags Procedure time: one to three hours Typical results: more youthful-looking eyes, tighter eyelid skin Recovery time: final results seen after four to six weeks Cost: around $2,000 to $5,000 In most cases, a functional eye lift is performed to remove loose skin from the upper eyelid if it droops low enough to impair your vision for driving or other visual tasks. Another functional problem is difficulty wearing glasses or contact lenses , whether from baggy upper or lower eyelids.

Other medical conditions that may require functional eyelid surgery include: Irritation from excess folds of eyelid skin rubbing together. Forehead discomfort from overused muscles that strain to lift sagging skin in the eyelid area. As with cosmetic blepharoplasty, functional blepharoplasty most often is performed by ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons. However, general plastic surgeons, ear, nose and throat surgeons, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons also perform medically necessary eyelid surgery. Ptosis and Eyelid Surgery Ptosis (TOE-sis) is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid  a condition that may affect one or both eyes. Ptosis that is present since birth is called congenital ptosis. Droopy eyelids in general occur when the edge of the upper eyelid (eyelid margin) falls from its normal position. When the edge of the eyelid falls too low and covers part of the pupil , it can block the upper part of your vision. In most cases, a drooping upper eyelid results from aging of previously normal structures. Typically, the tendon of the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid stretches and the eyelid falls.

Surgical correction of a drooping upper eyelid involves repairing the stretched tendon. It is not uncommon for a person to develop a droopy upper eyelid following cataract surgery or other eye surgeries because manipulation of the eyelid during a procedure can cause weakening of the muscle that holds the eye open. Stroke and trauma also can cause ptosis. Ptosis surgery most often is performed by ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons. Who Are the Best Candidates for Eyelid Surgery? If you aren't sure that you are a candidate for blepharoplasty, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor , who can evaluate you for any medical problems related to your eyelids. If you don't have a medical reason for a blepharoplasty procedure, you can discuss with your eye doctor any concerns or interest you might have regarding cosmetic eyelid surgery. You might consider blepharoplasty if you have excessive drooping and sagging of skin around eyes, which often is due to normal aging. Sagging skin also can be exaggerated when you have other conditions such as puffy eyes caused by eye allergies or edema.

Eyelid Surgery By Age (2015) If you are interested in blepharoplasty strictly for cosmetic reasons, then your doctor likely will advise you to keep expectations realistic. While cosmetic procedures can sometimes dramatically improve appearance, they are not the ultimate Fountain of Youth. The aging process will continue and  as with any cosmetic procedure  your improved appearance due to an eye lift will not last indefinitely. And at some point in the future, you might want to consider repeating the procedure. However, depending on your health and other factors, a blepharoplasty can last as long as 10 years. Your eye doctor also will evaluate you for possible surgical risk factors such as dry eye problems , thyroid eye disease and diabetes. Keep in mind that the severity and number of any health problems might eliminate you as a candidate for blepharoplasty. Smokers are at increased risk of surgical complications because they heal more slowly. If you are a smoker, your surgeon may advise you to quit smoking for at least several weeks prior to a procedure. Eyelid surgery tends to be more difficult to perform on people of Asian descent because of the unique structure of this ethnic group's eyelids.

For this reason, Asians might be more at risk of having less-than-optimal outcomes than other ethnic groups. Cosmetic eyelid surgery can potentially eliminate the "absent upper eyelid crease" appearance associated with Asian facial features. This change may "Westernize" the appearance of an Asian eyelid to a certain extent. Some Asian-American patients request this change; others find it unacceptable. Preparation for a Blepharoplasty Procedure You'll need to clarify with your doctor whether you'll be undergoing local or general anesthesia for your eyelid surgery. Do Clear Eyes = Beauty? Eyes are described as the most expressive of our facial features and the "windows to the soul." But it seems that eyes  in particular the sclera , or "whites" of the eye  also reveal the status of our physical and emotional health and our desirability as a potential love match. Sidebar continued >> In a recent study, researchers from the University of Maryland asked 208 men and women to look at 200 images of eyes, half of which had a white sclera and the other half had red, bloodshot eyes .

The results, published in the journal Ethology, found that people with bloodshot eyes are considered sadder, unhealthier and less attractive than people with clear, white scleras. "Standards of beauty vary across cultures, however, youth and healthiness are always in fashion because they are associated with reproductive fitness," said lead author Dr. Robert R. Provine. "Traits such as long, lustrous hair and smooth or scar-free skin are cues of youth and offer the beholder a partial record of health. Now clear eye whites join these traits as a universal standard for the perception of beauty and a cue of health and reproductive fitness." Read more about eyes and attraction here . If you have local anesthesia, you will remain awake during the procedure, but the area around your eyes will be numbed with a drug administered through a needle. Local anesthesia can be enhanced with the use of systemic sedatives given either orally or intravenously. You may require general anesthesia if the blepharoplasty is more complicated or if you plan to undergo other cosmetic procedures at the same time.

If you need general anesthesia, you will be given an intravenous (IV) injection that will put you to sleep for the duration of the procedure, which lasts from 20 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery and whether both upper and lower eyelids are involved. Prior to the day of the procedure and particularly if you'll be undergoing general anesthesia, you may be asked to take steps such as these: If your doctor advises this, stop taking any medication that can thin your blood and prevent it from clotting normally. This includes pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen. You'll need to stop these medications one to two weeks beforehand, to reduce the possibility of excess bleeding during the procedure. Eat only a light meal such as soup the evening before your surgery. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. On the morning of your procedure, you should take essential medications  such as for blood pressure  with a small sip of water. Do not wear makeup of any kind on the day of surgery. Make sure someone is available to transport you home and watch after you during the first several hours after you are released following surgery. Procedures typically are performed in a day clinic or at the doctor's office.

Ordinarily you would not need an overnight hospital stay unless you plan to have several complex cosmetic procedures that day. What Happens During Eyelid Surgery? Blepharoplasty can be performed on upper eyelids, lower eyelids  or both at the same time. Incisions made in the upper and lower eyelid in blepharoplasty are placed so they leave no visible scars after the procedure. During surgery, incisions are made in the natural folds of the eyelid, in the crease of the upper eyelid and just beneath the lashes or behind the lower eyelid. This way, incisions are virtually unnoticeable after they have healed. While you are lying down during blepharoplasty, your surgeon will make precise markings to designate where excess skin and fat pads need to be removed. Some underlying muscle also may be removed. These tissues are removed with surgical instruments such as scalpels, surgical scissors, radio-frequency cutting devices and sometimes cutting lasers. Sutures or tissue adhesives (glue) then are carefully applied to smooth and reconfigure areas around the eyebrows and eyelids.

During the procedure, your surgeon will make judgments about how much skin, muscle and/or fat to remove, based on a preoperative evaluation of factors such as your underlying facial muscle structure, bone structure and the symmetry of your eyebrows. Dry eye patients frequently require that less tissue be removed to avoid exposing more of the eye to the air, which can cause symptoms to worsen. Your surgeon also may use a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to enhance the procedure by resurfacing skin and smoothing out any remaining wrinkles in the eyelid and eyebrow area. In cases where the eyebrows also are droopy, a procedure to elevate the eyebrows also may be appropriate. This procedure, called a brow lift, involves making incisions into the scalp and tightening the skin to lift the eyebrows. Recovery From Blepharoplasty Following an eye lift procedure, topical antibiotic ointment will be applied. Eye patches rarely are necessary. On the first day, you should apply cold packs each hour you are awake, for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. The ice should reduce the swelling and keep bruising to a minimum. On the second day, apply cold packs every few hours for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

After 48 hours, warm compresses should be applied to promote faster healing. Your eye doctor will instruct you about what pain medication to take, if needed. Most people need only non-prescription pain relievers. Narcotics rarely are necessary. Expect mild discomfort during the immediate recovery period. But if pain is severe or vision changes occur, call your surgeon's office immediately. While you recover, your eye area will be bruised and red with swollen eyes , particularly during the first few days. The whites of your eyes ( sclera ) also may become red and bloodshot . It may take a few weeks for healing to be complete, during which time you should not wear eye makeup. You can resume wearing contact lenses when the eyelid swelling subsides enough to allow the lenses to be comfortable. If you wear eyeglasses, you can put them on carefully at any time after surgery. Often the sutures used for your procedure will dissolve on their own in four to seven days, and you will not need to have them removed. If non-dissolving sutures are used, then your surgeon will remove them about a week after the procedure. Most people who undergo eyelid surgery report satisfaction and improved self image.

Those whose vision was hampered by excess folds of skin often have improvements in the visual field they are able to see. Possible Complications of Eyelid Surgery A possible complication of eyelid surgery is a temporary inability to close your eyelids completely. This means that eyes may become abnormally dry. Usually this condition resolves after a few weeks or months, during which time you would need remedies such as eye drops , humidifiers and even taping the eyes closed at night to provide lubrication. Some surgeons will have you massage your eyelids a couple of weeks after the stitches have been removed, to soften the remaining skin and allow better closure of your eyelids. If the condition persists beyond two or three months, an additional procedure might be required to restore enough skin to the eyelid to enable complete closure over the eye. Other potential complications of blepharoplasty include: Undercorrection (not removing enough of the excessive skin) Overcorrection (removing too much skin) Numbness of the eyelids As mentioned above, always call your surgeon immediately when you have symptoms such as severe pain or a change in vision following a procedure. What Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?

Blepharoplasty cost varies, depending on the region of the country where you live, the surgeon, the surgeon's subspecialty, the facility where the surgery is performed and the extent of eyelid surgery you need. Prices for an eye lift range from about $2,000 for a simple procedure such as addressing both upper eyelids without removing fat, to $5,000 for a more complicated one such as surgery on all four eyelids, including removal of protruding fat. These are estimates of surgeon's fees only. Charges for an ambulatory surgery facility or in-office operating suite are additional and can range from $800 to $2,000 per procedure. If you are undergoing a functional blepharoplasty, then Medicare or your private health insurance likely will cover a major portion of the cost of the procedure. Your insurance company may require prior authorization before you can proceed with the surgery. However, medical insurance companies rarely pay for cosmetic eyelid surgery.

Blepharoplasy | Eyelid surgery Blepharoplasty Eyelid surgery Blepharoplasty, more commonly called an eyelid lift or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a procedure designed to remove droopy, puffy or baggy skin deposits from the area around the eyes. These skin deposits tend to make the patient look older or appear tired. Asian eyelid surgery is a common variation of this procedure; it creates a supratarsal eyelid crease for a single-lidded appearance. This is also called double eyelid surgery. Cost of Blepharoplasty It's difficult to estimate the cost of eyelid plastic surgery because it involves a reduction in muscle, skin and fatty tissues surrounding the eye. The full of extent of the surgery will vary from patient to patient and even from one eye to another. However, the typical blepharoplasty cost ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. These costs include surgeon, facility and anesthesia fees. As with other types of cosmetic surgery, this procedure is generally not covered by health insurance plans unless it is related to ptosis or another medical condition.

Patient Evaluation Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are emotionally stable, physically fit and knowledgeable about the procedure, with realistic expectations for its outcome. Patients should be at least 35 years of age, but exceptions are possible. If you suffer from hypothyroidism, glaucoma, Graves' disease, dry eyes, high blood pressure, diabetes or cardiovascular disease, you may be rejected as a candidate for eyelid surgery. You should also tell your doctor if you've recently had laser eye surgery performed. The Blepharoplasty Procedure The plastic surgeon makes incisions along the creases of the upper eyelid and, if needed, along the outside lower rim of the eye. An incision inside the lower eye rim may be necessary as well. Fat and muscle tissue is separated from the skin so that any excess tissues can be removed. The laser blepharoplasty procedure involves an incision on the inside of the lower eyelid and uses a laser to smooth away excess tissue on the outside. This allows for faster healing and a reduced risk of scarring. You may be under local or general anesthesia while the operation is performed, and you should consult your doctor to see if you can choose the option you prefer.

Surgery may last as long as three hours, with most patients returning home within a few hours of the operation. Risks of Blepharoplasty Surgery As in other types of facial surgery, there are risks involved with blepharoplasty. These include the risk of infection, scarring and reactions to the anesthesia. Other specific risks of eyelid surgery include dry, itchy, teary or burning eyes, sensitivity to light and double vision. These symptoms may last for a few days after the surgery and can often be relieved by using eye drops. Other rare complications include a pulled-down appearance of the lower eyelids or trouble closing the eyes completely. Both of these conditions may be permanent; if they're correctible, they may require further surgery. Recovering from the Operation Immediately following the surgery, your eyes will be bandaged and lubricated. Painkillers may be prescribed. To speed the recovery process, you may be asked to avoid television and told not to wear eye makeup or contact lenses. Stitches are often removed about one week after surgery; your doctor has to wait for the bruising to subside. Wearing sunglasses and using sun block to protect the eyes is recommended.

You may resume normal activity within 10 days, though you may have to wait up to three weeks before engaging in strenuous exercise. Alternative Procedures If you're not a candidate for blepharoplasty, there are alternatives that may offer similar benefits. Check with your doctor to determine if you're eligible for any of these non-invasive procedures: Laser skin resurfacing: Eliminates damaged outer skin tissue while stimulating collagen production. Botox injection: Temporarily prevents muscle contractions that create wrinkles in the skin. Thermage eye treatments: Uses a radiofrequency tip to stimulate collagen growth and tighten existing skin. Lastly, brow lift surgery can also address drooping eyelids while minimizing the look of frown lines and forehead lines. This is one of the simplest and least invasive facial surgeries available. Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty home > plastic surgery procedures > blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) Blepharoplasty - Cosmetic Plastic Surgery of the Eyelids Blepharoplasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that removes fat and excess skin from the area around the eyelids. It can remove the puffy bags under the patient's eyes and correct droopy eyelids.

Patients who undergo blepharoplasty generally wind up with eyes that look younger and more alert. FaceForum has compiled this information for our visitors who want to learn more about blepharoplasty. We hope that our blepharoplasty section will provide you with a good foundation for understanding the surgery. While we have done our best to collect information for you, please realize that FaceForum's blepharoplasty section cannot answer all of your questions and is not intended to replace the advice your receive in a one-on-one consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. With that in mind, please read on! How FaceForum's Blepharoplasty Section Works We've broken the information in the blepharoplasty section out into pages. Each page has previous/next navigation for those of our visitors who wish to proceed in an orderly fashion. If you happen to be the kind of person who likes to skip around from topic to topic, we have also incorporated a Quick Topic Navigation index at the bottom of each page.

Blepharoplasty | Skin Institute Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) You don’t have to be tired to have droopy eyelids or bags under your eyes. If these are problems that plague you, eyelid surgery at Skin Institute can help you look lively and feel great. Blepharoplasty can correct droopy eyelids and remove puffiness and bags under your eyes. Whether you need a change for cosmetic purposes or to improve vision (functional), our skilled surgeons offer highly effective eyelid surgery, while you feel confident in the knowledge that we’ll be right beside you every step of the way. Plastic surgery is part 'art' and part 'science'. Every patient requires an individually tailored solution and my philosophy is to dedicate whatever time, attention and effort is required to achieve the desired result in the safest possible way. Mr Zachary Moaveni Before and After Photos View all About With this procedure we aim to reshape the upper and/or lower eyelids by removing and/or repositioning excess tissue, and in some cases reinforcing surrounding muscles and tendons. The surgery can help improve peripheral vision when performed on the upper eyelids, which is important in activities such as reading and driving.

It will also give you the appearance of your eyes being more open and alert. This particular procedure does not alter dark circles, fine lines or wrinkles around the eyes – if these are also problems you would like to address, Skin Institute’s other appearance medicine and cosmetic surgery options can help sort out those issues. You need all the information possible before you can make decisions about what to do with your body. Here are the basic facts about eyelid surgery at Skin Institute: Can be either a functional or cosmetic procedure depending on the case Upper blepharoplasty is daycase surgery with local anaesthesia and oral sedation Lower blepharoplasty is daycase surgery with intravenous sedation A few days off work required for recovery Scars that will become almost imperceptible with time Can be either a functional or cosmetic procedure depending on the case Treatment These surgeries are daycase procedures performed under local anaesthesia, with intravenous sedation used for lower blepharoplasty. Your eyeball will be protected with a metal shield, and antibiotic ointment will be administered throughout the procedure to avoid infection. Here’s what you can expect from the surgery: For the upper eyelids, local anaesthesia and oral sedation is used.

An incision (cut) is made in the skin crease of the upper eyelid. Skin will be removed in a crescent shape and in some cases a small amount of fat is removed. Typically non-dissolvable sutures are used and will require removal five to seven days after surgery. With time the scar will be virtually invisible. In lower eyelid operations, local anaesthesia and intravenous sedation is administered. A variety of incisions can be used depending on your case, and these are rarely visible once healing is complete. Fat and skin is removed through the incision. 24 hours after the procedure, the dressings will be removed so that you can shower. You’ll need a few days at home to recover before going back to work. Usually you’ll be fully recovered within seven days. By that time, your eyes may still be mildly swollen, and they’ll continue to improve every day. If you received non-dissolving sutures, they’ll require removal after five days. By the end of the second week, most of the bruising will have disappeared, the sutures will have dissolved, and you can usually start getting back to your normal activities.

If you have discolouration that bothers you, you can conceal it with make-up. After a month, you can get back into exercise, and after 12 weeks, you should see your final result. Upper Blepharoplasty Testimonial The staff is absolutely marvellous. From the Doctor to the receptionist, the attention I received was so lovely. The Nurses were very caring and couldn’t do enough for me. Carole Why Skin Institute? At Skin Institute, we take the time to ensure that you are fully informed and can trust in the expertise of our team. Since 1994, we have grown into a multi-disciplinary specialist centre with over 18 clinics nationwide. Our surgeons are all extremely experienced, having worked around New Zealand and throughout the world in their specialty areas, and they bring that experience back to Skin Institute to benefit you. We are continually striving to improve our services and keep up to date with the latest research on treatments, to ensure that you feel confident with us as your skin health partner.

Book a Consultation Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift) | Omaha NE's Top-rated Cosmetic Surgery | Sculpt Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift) Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift) Blepharoplasty at SCULPT Contemporary Cosmetic Surgery Blepharoplasty is the surgical removal of excess skin from either the upper or lower eyelid. In some cases, blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, is performed to improve visual defects because of the excess skin. However, most often, it is a cosmetic procedure to give the appearance of larger, brighter, healthier, and younger eyes. At SCULPT Contemporary Cosmetic Surgery in Omaha, Nebraska, Dr. Stanley uses the most minimally invasive techniques for this procedure. Dr. Stanley uses the latest in radio frequency equipment, rather than a scalpel to remove the excess skin around the eye. This ensures the smallest amount of bleeding, bruising, and scarring. It also ensures the quickest possible recovery time. Many patients return to work the next day. Before Request a Consultation Meet Dr. Stanley As the medical director of SCULPT: Contemporary Cosmetic Surgery, Dr.

Stanley is at the forefront of the most exciting advances in the field of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Dr. Stanley believes that helping patients look and feel their best requires a keen understanding of the latest technology and techniques coupled with an artistic application. He has always been noted for his commitment to patients and for providing a level of care and service that is unparalleled. Compassion, honesty, and integrity are qualities that Dr. Stanley lives by. He believes that every patient deserves access to the most cutting-edge and minimally invasive procedures possible in order to achieve a true sense of harmony. Learn More What is eyelid surgery? | Eyelid Surgery | American Society of Plastic Surgeons What is eyelid surgery? Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Surgery can be performed on either the upper or lower lids, or both. Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems with your eyelids, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes.

Specifically, eyelid surgery can treat: Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid, sometimes impairing vision Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the eyelids Bags under the eyes Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid Next: Eyelid surgery cost Blepharoplasty Or Eyelid Surgery - Cosmetic Surgery - Skin Care - Beauty & Personal Care - Sharecare Blepharoplasty Or Eyelid Surgery More Less A Dr. Arthur W. Perry, MD , Plastic Surgery, answered As with all procedures, infection and bleeding are possible after blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). Bleeding around the eye can be severe and can result in disaster. With blepharoplasty, there is a 1 in 10,000 chance of blindness following the surgery, usually after severe bleeding behind the eyeball. If the bleeding is recognized early, rapid action by the surgeon (using both surgery and medications) can salvage vision. This rare but devastating complication underscores that this is real surgery, not just television entertainment. Another risk is development of a pull-down of the lid.

This ectropion can be cosmetically disfiguring and can endanger vision. Most surgeons have had patients who developed this complication temporarily following surgery; most ectropions resolve within a few weeks. Some need help by the surgeon, perhaps a temporary sewing shut of the outer portion of the eyelid. In rare cases, additional, more invasive surgery is necessary. Because not all plastic surgeons can perform this type of surgery, the patient may be sent to a regional specialist, such as a plastic surgeon or ophthalmologist who handles these types of problems. Symptoms of dry eye can appear after eyelid surgery. This problem is usually present before the surgery, but the removal of eyelid skin and the swelling that accompanies surgery can cause symptoms. Saltwater eye drops during the day and a thick, protective ointment in the eyes at night can buy a few weeks until the swelling settles down. Dry eye problems are likely when eyelid lifting is performed in the first six months after surgery to correct vision (LASIK). The surgery must be performed carefully, if at all, during this early period. A rare complication of lower eyelid lifting is injury to the muscles that move the eyeball.

Cosmetic problems are due to the removal of too much or too little skin or fat. It is better to err on the conservative side, because more skin or fat can always be removed later on. It may be nearly impossible to put back skin or fat. Common problems after eyelid surgery relate to stitches. The lids heal so quickly that little cysts can occur along the incisions, even if the stitches are removed by five days. The cysts are easily treated by numbing the skin and snipping the cyst or overgrown suture tract. White scars are common in brown pigmented skin. Find out more about this book: A Johns Hopkins Medicine answered After eyelid surgery, you want to be really careful because of the delicate nature of the surgery. Here is useful information about what you can expect during the first week after eyelid surgery. These are general guidelines -- your doctor may give you slightly different instructions: Cleaning your eyes -- after your eyelid surgery, apply cold compresses to the eye area from after the operation until you go to sleep in the evening. You can use crushed ice, unopened bags of frozen peas, or commercial cold compress packs. Use them for 20 minutes each hour the first day and evening while you are awake.

Then resume the cold compresses the next day until the evening. Medications -- Your doctor will give you prescriptions for eye drops and ointment. You can clean the incisions around your eye gently with gauze soaked in saline or with cotton swabs. The way to do this is to gently dab the area in order to loosen dried blood -- but don't rub. This should be done two to three times the first night, then two to three times daily afterward. After the eye is cleaned, apply the prescription eye ointment -- three times a day. Bathing -- You can begin to take daily showers on the first or second day after the procedure. Let the shampoo or soapy water run over the incisions. Don't worry -- soapy water won't harm them. Pain, swelling, bruising, and nausea -- You are likely to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. You may also feel very tired, and perhaps nauseated. You may even vomit during the first 24 hours. You may have a sore throat; that is normal and comes from the use of a breathing tube that was put in your throat during the surgery to help you breathe. The sore throat usually lasts about five days.

Blurry vision -- it is possible that you will have blurry vision for a few days. Tightness -- you may feel some tightness around your eyes, face, and neck. Eyeglasses -- you may wear eyeglasses when you are comfortable doing so. But don't wear your contact lenses until your doctor gives you the go-ahead. Exercise -- light exercise such as walking is encouraged. But don't do strenuous exercise until your doctor gives you the okay to do so. This will minimize bruising. If anything else occurs, or if you are worried about any pain or other discomfort during your recovery, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. A Dr. Arthur W. Perry, MD , Plastic Surgery, answered Several techniques are used in lower blepharoplasty (lower eyelid surgery): Traditional blepharoplasty: In this procedure, an incision is made in the skin just below the eyelashes. The skin is lifted, exposing the membrane that holds the three lower-lid fat pads. This membrane is penetrated, exposing the fat pads. Precisely the right amount of fat is removed from the lids to allow for a flat lower lid. We do not want bulging fat, nor do we want a sunken lid.

Again, here is where artistry joins medicine. Finally, a 2- to 4-millimeter strip of excess skin is removed. Pinch blepharoplasty: This older, simple technique of lower eyelid lifting is poised to make a comeback because of a paper in the plastic surgery literature. Fat is first removed through an incision inside the eyelid. A pinch of skin is then removed from the lower lid, without invading any deeper tissues or removing muscle. This technique has a lower chance of complications such as a pull-down of the lids. However, patients with very lax lids may still need a canthopexy (see below). Laser blepharoplasty: Some surgeons use the laser to perform this procedure. The laser is a tool, like a knife or a scissors. It can be used to perform nearly any operation, but most honest surgeons agree that it slows operations and adds risk. Lasers cause a heat injury that results in increased healing time. And when used in a blepharoplasty, it could perforate the eyeball. Transconjunctival blepharoplasty: Instead of a skin incision, the cut is made inside the lower eyelid, usually with an electrocautery.

A portion of the fat pads is removed. No visible scars and possibly a lower chance of lid pull-down are the advantages, but wrinkles and sags aren't helped. In my experience, this procedure is useful only for young patients with bulging fat and no extra skin. Canthopexy: A canthopexy is a simple procedure that tightens the lower lid and elevates its position. Usually one or two dissolvable or permanent stitches attach the muscle of the lower lid to a slightly higher position on the outer bony rim. No additional scars are created. If the lid is very loose, it may be necessary to perform a more radical tightening procedure, perhaps one that removes a wedge of eyelid skin or one that detaches and repositions the lower lid muscle from the bone. On average, a simple blepharoplasty takes between two and two and a half hours. A canthopexy will add about half an hour to the procedure. Find out more about this book:

Question: A blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure to remove skin from where?
Answer: Eyelids